Sterling Mendenhall

With deep love and gratitude, the family of Sterling Mendenhall announces his passing on November 5, 2025. On that day, Sterling walked into Heaven—finally free from polio and reunited with the full strength and wholeness he was always promised.

Born and raised on the south side of Des Moines, Sterling embraced life with resilience, humor, and heart. A proud polio survivor, he refused to let challenges define him. He was the Polio Poster boy in 1950, and he became a bit of a local legend — “famous” for being the best one-armed Little League pitcher on the Southside, where his determination and competitive spirit inspired everyone who watched him play.

Sterling dedicated 32 years of service to Iowa Lutheran Hospital, working as an HVAC engineer and was known by his colleagues for his quick-witted humor.

Sterling spent the last 30 years of his life with his wife Janilla. The two enjoyed memorable trips to Las Vegas and shared a deep love for the Chicago Cubs. One of Sterling’s greatest joys was his granddaughter, Jordyn. Watching Cubs games together and singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”.

Sterling is survived by his beloved wife Janilla; stepchildren Brandon and Brian Jordan; granddaughter Jordyn; nephew Chris Mendenhall; sister-in-law Shelley Mendenhall; and his aunt Sylvia Mendenhall. He was preceded in death by other beloved family members whom we know were there to welcome him home.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, November 15th at 2:00 PM at Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Mendenhall/Jordan bench on the east side of the pond to honor Sterling’s life.

Sterling’s life serves as a reminder that challenges can shape us, but joy, devotion, and kindness define us. His family rejoices knowing that he now walks freely in Heaven—whole, healed, and deeply loved.